NASSAU COUNTY, Fla. – A large alligator was spotted enjoying an early Friday morning stroll on Fernandina Beach.
The City of Fernandina Beach Government posted a photo on social media showing the large reptile lounging around the Seaside beach access.
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“This beauty is hanging out at Seaside beach access this morning,” the City of Fernandina Beach Government posted on Facebook. “Alligators taking a dip in salt water is a normal occurrence and no one should be alarmed. Please keep a wide berth.”
Related: Spot the difference: Here’s how to tell an alligator from a crocodile
The Nassau County Sheriff’s Office also shared the photo on Facebook and warned beachgoers to be vigilant.
The post said: A large alligator has been spotted in the area between Sliders restaurant and Peter’s Point Beach. For your safety: 👀 Be alert when near water 🚫 Keep children and pets away from the water’s edge 🙅 Do not feed or approach alligators.
According to the FWC, there are an estimated 1.3 million alligators in Florida, and they can be found in all 67 counties. The FWC also said that most alligators can be found in wetlands, such as lakes or rivers, where there is adequate food and shelter. And although gators are not usually swimming in the ocean, it’s not unheard of.
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